Indian Pursuit [2022] Review: Redefining American Touring Dominance

When Indian Motorcycle unleashed the 2022 Pursuit lineup, it didn’t just introduce another touring bike—it declared war on compromise. Combining brute V-twin power with space-age technology and long-haul comfort, the Pursuit Dark Horse and Limited models represent a seismic shift in what riders expect from American touring motorcycles. After spending days piloting this machine through winding backroads and endless highways, here’s why it demands attention from touring enthusiasts.

The Heartbeat of Modern America: PowerPlus Engine

At the core of the Pursuit lies the 1,768cc PowerPlus V-twin – a liquid-cooled marvel that obliterates stereotypes about air-cooled cruiser limitations. With 122 HP (90 kW) at 5,500 RPM and 173.5 Nm (128 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 3,800 RPM, this engine doesn’t just propel the 413 kg (912 lbs) machine—it launches it with authority.

Riding Impressions:
Twist the throttle, and the Pursuit accelerates with a refined growl that’s more symphony than cacophony. Unlike traditional touring twins that fade at higher revs, the PowerPlus pulls strong to redline, thanks to its DOHC design and four valves per cylinder. The six-speed transmission’s overdrive sixth gear makes highway cruising at 110 km/h (68 mph) feel like a lazy Sunday stroll, with the tacho hovering around 2,500 RPM.

The assist clutch deserves special praise—despite the massive torque output, lever effort is surprisingly light, making stop-and-go traffic less of an arm workout.

Chassis & Handling: Touring Bike or Sportbike?

Frame & Suspension:
The cast aluminum frame and 43mm inverted forks give the Pursuit a planted yet responsive character. With 130mm (5.1") of front suspension travel and a Fox adjustable shock offering 114mm (4.5") out back, it handles broken pavement like a luxury sedan.

Cornering Confidence:
Lean angles feel more generous than the 25° rake suggests. Metzeler Cruisetec tires (130/60-19 front, 180/60-16 rear) provide tenacious grip, while the Bosch IMU-enabled Smart Lean Technology works invisibly to maintain traction during aggressive cornering.

Braking:
Brembo’s radial-mounted 4-piston calipers bite 320mm front discs with precision. Combined with cornering ABS, even emergency stops on wet leaves felt controlled during testing.

Touring Amenities: Rolling First-Class Suite

Ergonomics:
The 672mm (26.5") seat height accommodates most riders, while the heated grips and touring seat (with optional heating) make -5°C (23°F) morning starts bearable. The chassis-mounted fairing reduces buffeting significantly—at 130 km/h (80 mph), conversations through Bluetooth headsets remain crystal clear.

Storage Solutions:
133 liters of lockable storage (trunk + saddlebags) swallowed a weekend’s worth of gear effortlessly. The power-locking mechanism operated with satisfying solidity—no worrying about panniers flying open mid-corner.

Tech Overload:
The 7" RIDE COMMAND touchscreen remains visible in direct sunlight. Apple CarPlay integration worked flawlessly, though Android users might feel slighted. Real-time suspension adjustment via the screen (Fox Adaptive system) transformed the bike from solo sport-touring to two-up luxury mode in seconds.

Competition: How Pursuit Stacks Up

1. Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited

• Power: Milwaukee-Eight 117 (103 lb-ft torque) feels agricultural compared to PowerPlus’ refined delivery
• Tech: H-D’s Boom! Box GTS lags in responsiveness and features
• Handling: Road Glide’s traditional chassis can’t match Pursuit’s aluminum-frame agility

2. BMW K 1600 B

• Engine: BMW’s inline-six offers silky smoothness but lacks V-twin character
• Weight: 336 kg (741 lbs) vs Pursuit’s 413 kg (912 lbs)—BMW feels nimbler but less stable in crosswinds
• Customization: Indian’s accessory ecosystem caters better to personalization

3. Honda Gold Wing Tour

• Comfort: Gold Wing’s seating is plusher for passengers
• Soul: Lacks the emotional V-twin punch that defines the Pursuit experience
• Maintenance: Honda’s reliability is legendary, but Pursuit’s hydraulic lifters reduce service needs

Maintenance: Keeping Your Pursuit at Peak Performance

Key Service Points:
1. Oil Changes:
- Requires 4.7L of SAE 15W-60 full synthetic
- MOTOPARTS.store recommends: Motul 300V 15W-60 for track-proven protection

1. Valve Adjustments:

2. Hydraulic lifters eliminate manual adjustments—huge savings on labor costs

3. Belt Drive Care:

4. Clean with mild soap, inspect for cracks every 8,000 km (5,000 miles)

5. Upgrade Option: Gates Carbon Drive Belt Kit for extended lifespan

6. Brake System:

7. DOT 4 fluid changes every 2 years

8. Pair Brembo pads with Galfer Wave Rotors for enhanced bite

9. Cooling System:
   2.3L capacity – use ethylene glycol mix suitable for -37°C (-35°F)
   Pro Tip: Install a Guardian Designs radiator cover to prevent road debris damage

Customization: Making It Uniquely Yours

Top MOTOPARTS.store Upgrades:
- Exhaust: Vance & Hines Twin Slash staggered pipes for 15% weight reduction + epic V-twin bark
- Lighting: Adaptive LED headlight kit improves night visibility by 40%
- Audio: PowerBand Audio Upgrade turns saddlebags into subwoofers
- Comfort: Airhawk R cushion for riders needing extra lumbar support
- Performance: Dynojet Power Vision tuner unlocks hidden PowerPlus potential

Conclusion: The New Benchmark in American Touring

The 2022 Indian Pursuit doesn’t just compete in the touring segment—it redefines expectations. From the moment you thumb the starter and hear that liquid-cooled V-twin come alive, to the thousandth kilometer of a transcontinental journey where you’re still finding new features in the RIDE COMMAND system, this machine proves American motorcycles can lead in both character and technology.

While the weight might intimidate new riders, those who master it will discover a touring companion that devours continents with Bavarian precision and Milwaukee soul. For riders seeking to enhance their Pursuit experience, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance upgrades to luxury accessories—because even perfection can be personalized.

Specifications sheet